GC Tooth Mousse vs MI Paste Plus: What’s the Difference?

They look similar, sound similar, and sit side by side on the shelf — but they’re not the same product. Here’s what sets them apart.

If you’ve searched for Tooth Mousse online, you’ve probably come across MI Paste, MI Paste Plus, and Tooth Mousse Plus. The naming is genuinely confusing, so let’s clear it up.

Same Maker, Different Names

GC Tooth Mousse and MI Paste are made by the same company — GC Corporation. The difference is purely regional branding:

• Tooth Mousse — the name used in South Africa, Europe, and Australia
• MI Paste — the name used in the United States

Same formula. Same product. Different label.

So Where Does MI Paste Plus Come In?

MI Paste Plus (also called Tooth Mousse Plus) is a different formulation. It contains the same CPP-ACP base as regular Tooth Mousse, but adds 900 ppm of fluoride.

Both products use Recaldent™ (CPP-ACP) — a milk-derived protein complex that delivers bio-available calcium and phosphate to the tooth surface, helping to remineralise weakened enamel. The Plus version takes this further by incorporating fluoride, which promotes the formation of fluorapatite — a more acid-resistant form of enamel mineral.

How They Compare

GC Tooth Mousse (R559.95)

• CPP-ACP (Recaldent™), no fluoride
• Safe for all ages, including children under 6
• Safe during pregnancy
• Ideal for patients who want remineralisation without additional fluoride

GC MI Paste Plus (R650.00)

• CPP-ACP + 900 ppm fluoride
• For ages 6 and older only (fluoride content means it’s not suitable for young children)
• Best suited for patients at higher risk of decay or those needing stronger enamel protection
• Combines remineralisation with fluoride protection in a single application

Both products are contraindicated for anyone with a milk protein allergy (casein allergy — not the same as lactose intolerance). Both come in five flavours: Vanilla, Strawberry, Melon, Mint, and Tutti-Frutti.

When Would a Dentist Recommend One Over the Other?

Tooth Mousse (no fluoride) is the go-to for:

• Children under 6
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Post-whitening sensitivity relief
• Patients already using a high-fluoride toothpaste or rinse who don’t need more fluoride
• Orthodontic patients wanting extra enamel protection around brackets

MI Paste Plus (with fluoride) is typically recommended for:

• Adults and children over 6 at higher caries risk
• Patients with early white spot lesions who want maximum remineralisation
• Those with significant acid erosion from diet or reflux
• Dry mouth patients who’ve lost the natural fluoride reservoir that saliva provides
• Post-orthodontic treatment to address demineralisation

In practice, the choice often comes down to whether additional fluoride exposure is appropriate for the patient. For someone already brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day, regular Tooth Mousse may be all that’s needed. For higher-risk patients, the Plus version offers that extra layer of protection.

How to Use Either Product

The application is the same for both:

1. Brush with your regular toothpaste first
2. Apply a pea-sized amount to teeth using a clean finger, cotton swab, or tray
3. Leave on for at least 3 minutes
4. Spit out — don’t rinse
5. Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes

For best results, use once or twice daily as directed by your dentist.

The Bottom Line

Tooth Mousse and MI Paste Plus aren’t competing products — they’re companions. One offers pure CPP-ACP remineralisation, the other adds fluoride for patients who need it. Your dentist can help you decide which is the better fit based on your individual risk profile.

Both are available at Smilerite.